Architectural Technology

   Winter 2010 Program Outline

Start: Fall

Degrees and Certificates

• AAS - SCC
• Certificate - SCC

Program Website:

www.scc.spokane.edu/?archengat

Program Description

The first year consists of line construction, lettering, architectural symbols, orthographic projections, freehand sketching, isometric and perspective pictorial drawing, light construction principles (materials and methods), use of drafting expressions international residential codes and the extensive use of CAD software. Additional emphasis is placed on architectural construction documents, which include building and wall sections, window and door schedules,  stair design, site plans, footings and foundations, floor plans, exterior elevations and framing plans. Graphic representation using computer software is used in the production of documents of the common phrases of architectural design including programming, schematic design, design development and construction documents.  Utilization of the above is finalized in the development of residential working drawings of varying degrees of complexity.

Students will receive a Residential Architectural Technology Certificate after completing the first three quarters of the AAS degree.

The second year consists of architectural working drawings using CAD for commercial applications developed from a preliminary design; drafting techniques, standards and practices of the profession, including office procedure knowledge, use of building materials; structural framing systems as used in the building industry; and related engineering technical courses including mechanical and electrical systems for buildings.

Program Goals

1. Be proficient in the development and organization of a set of architectural working drawings for both residential and commercial structures.
2. Have a basic understanding of different types of structural framing systems and the use and installation of building materials.
3. Have basic understanding of building codes and their applications.
4. Have drafting methods and techniques of a quality acceptable to the architectural profession and other related fields.
5. Be acquainted with the drafting room procedures and practices of an architectural office.
6. Be proficient in the use and application of reference material normally used in drafting rooms.
7. Become proficient with CAD (computer aided drafting) and have experience on the computer using Auto CAD and architectural software applications.

Career Opportunities

The entire program is designed to prepare students for employment in fields where their technical drawing and problem solving abilities are needed to assist the engineer, architect or related fields to the construction industry. Employment opportunities for drafts persons are expected to be favorable through the 2000s. Prospects will be best for those having post-high school manual drafting and CAD training. Employment of drafts persons is expected to rise rapidly as a result of the increasing complex design problems of modern products and processes and the growth of engineering and scientific occupation.

POTENTIAL POSITIONS INCLUDE: architectural drafter, drafting equipment salesperson, estimator, engineering drafter, manufacturer's representative, shop drawings for fabrications drafter and computer aided drafter.